The Golden State Warriors wanted to trade their two lottery picks in the NBA Draft for a proven veteran, but when that scenario didn’t materialize, general manager Bob Myers wasted little time in moving to “Plan B.”
The Warriors got longer and more athletic with the addition of two wing players, Jonathan Kuminga, selected at No. 7 overall, and Moses Moody, the No. 14 pick. And according to multiple reports, Golden State would have been happy to draft either player with the coveted seventh choice.
Of course, the main concern for many Warriors fans and observers is the age of these two prospects. Both Kuminga, from the G-League Ignite, and Moody, who played 32 games at the University of Arkansas last year, are teenagers.
But I think Golden State’s front office set an unattainable goal of gaining an “experienced” player with an NBA lottery pick. Some players have more experience than others, but either way, you’re getting a rookie.
Warriors superstars Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green still need more veteran-like help, but free agency is right around the corner. And besides, shouldn’t Golden State’s gifted trio have enough of their own experience to help Kuminga and Moody contribute?
The team needs role players, and that’s what Kuminga and Moody should be, along with second-year center James Wiseman. If coach Steve Kerr can limit their roles, the Warriors’ offensive and defensive systems — along with the franchise’s culture and personnel — should be enough to make these players a success.
Of course, they can still be traded. But it doesn’t appear that any difference-makers are on the market. It’s a win-win for the Warriors, since Kuminga and Moody represent extreme value, both as roster pieces and potential trade fodder. Time will tell, but it appears Myers’ backup plan came up roses by drafting the best talent on the board, regardless of so called “experience.”
Bay Area Sports Hub 